Wednesday 2 December 2020

Iconic Trafalgar Square Christmas tree arrives in London - On display 3rd DEC 2020

 

Andrew Byrne, managing director of DFDS Seaways UK, with the Christmas tree at the Port of Immingham
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An iconic Christmas tree has arrived in Immingham ahead of its journey to London’s Trafalgar Square.

This year’s tree is about 23 metres tall and arrived at the Port of Immingham early on Saturday morning on board the DFDS ship, Ficaria Seaways.

It is a token of gratitude from the people of Oslo, Norway, for Britain’s support and assistance during the Second World War, an annual tradition which began in 1947.

The Trafalgar Square Christmas tree is usually a Norwegian Spruce which is roughly 50 to 60-years-old.

This year’s tree is about 23 metres tall and arrived at the Port of Immingham early on Saturday morning on board the DFDS ship, Ficaria Seaways 

A statement from Mayor of London, London Assembly reads: “It is selected from the forests surrounding Oslo with great care several months, even years, in advance.

“The Norwegian foresters who look after it describe it fondly as 'the queen of the forest'.

“The tree is felled in November during a ceremony in which the Lord Mayor of Westminster, the British ambassador to Norway and the Mayor of Oslo participate.

“It is brought to the UK by sea, then completes its journey by lorry. A specialist rigging team erects it in the square using a hydraulic crane.

“It is decorated in traditional Norwegian fashion, with vertical strings of lights. Energy-efficient light bulbs are used.”

Andrew Byrne, managing director of DFDS Seaways UK, said: “DFDS Seaways has been transporting the tree across the North Sea for more than 25 years.

“Everybody gets excited about this operation, it’s the start of the festive season and because the tree is so famous it gets lots of attention and our colleagues really want to be involved.

“It’s been a difficult year for everyone, and Christmas will be different this year so the fact that we can continue this tradition and spread some joy is something we’re really pleased about.”

The tree will be transported to Trafalgar Square by road ready for a virtual lighting-up ceremony on December 3.